The Byron Bay Shire has long been alluring and there is always something (memories mixed with leisurely lunches and ocean swims) so special about holidaying here. I would know as I’ve been committedly yet casually romancing her (the enchanting seabreeze calls me often but not needily) for over 20 years.
Sure, much has changed from its original ultra-laid back and evidently (depending on your perspective) unorthodox hedonistic hippie come surfer village days but many things remain pleasantly the same.
First and foremost its the natural beauty of Australia’s most easterly point breaks stealing the show, followed closely by what can only be described as the towns definitive ‘vibe’. Fortunately, I’m happy to share the details of my favourite luxury haven, the Villas of Byron Bay which makes for a sensational north coast holiday home. I’ve also added a few astute selections of Byron’s ‘must-sees’ and ‘must-eats’ with you too.
The Villas of Byron
The Villas of Byron are a central sanctuary (as in, very private) that exude a genuinely inviting yet sophisticated ambiance. Arrival/check-in is simple, whether your self driving or alighting via private transfer. What is tricky is deciding which space to relax & recharge in, since all of these villas feature tempting interior/exterior experiential zones to laze/graze/indulge in.
The rooms are an oasis of calm (the fantastically cosy beds confidently attest to this), decorated with tasteful artworks, fine linens and an overarching theme of opulent oriental charm (nods in appreciation to the visionary who first imagined the Villas destiny & created it from dream to execution). Signature design additions – such as the outdoor rain shower (heavenly) and lavish ensuites (yes, to deep ritual bathing) really lift the luxe experience to another level.
The serenity here is real, with the property’s prime location backing on to a sub-tropical rainforest setting and the Villas private mineral pools symbiotically creating a cocoon of Zen and an aura of cool.
Do you desire a session of in-house pampering? Good, because there’s a list of tailored (massage, facials, packages etc.) treatments on the spa menu and yes, reading this sentence is ‘the sign’ you needed to go ahead and book in quick.
Each villa (there’s a mix of spacious 1 & 2 bedroom offerings and I prefer the Grand Villa for family gatherings) boasts a contemporary kitchen, complete with top quality appliances and furnishings that make entertaining guests (if you’re so inclined) too easy and the BBQ is at the ready if you want to cook up poolside alfresco style.
Feeling like stepping out for a gourmet feast instead? Read on to discover my ‘best of the best’ Byron Bay restaurants and bar suggestions.
A Brief Guide to Byron Bay Bars & Dining
It’s official, days filled with sunshine, flitting leisurely through treasure trove-filled boutiques, inhaling delicious lunches at plush but no posh eateries , surfing (when the tide is right) and balmy nights spent dining at excellent restaurants before retiring back to your decadent Villa is the proper way to get a true taste of the Bay.
For a great breakfast my eternal favourites eats are Bay Leaf Cafe and The Three Blue Ducks. A touch further afield brings you tasty takeaway treats from the bakery at Suffolk Park (get a breaky burrito please & trust me on this) and/or a decadent destination brunch at Shelter in neighboring Lennox Head.
I certainly believe that an elegant lunch is oft enjoyed overlooking the sea. The outstanding menu at Beach Byron Bay and the a la carte offerings from Rae’s on Wategos are both always impressive. My alternate pick has to be a Mediterranean-inspired meal at Barrio located within the Habitat precinct for a moreish feast & luxe retail shopping trip in one.
Your dinner choices are pretty much wide open here. Such is the calibre of high-quality restaurants in Byron Bay. If you like superb Asian flavours, go directly to Moonlight, authentic Greek food lovers will adore the casual Kouzina taverna and steak & seafood devotees will likely appreciate Azure Bar & Grill.
Oh and the Balcony Bar & Oyster Co. is always a star when it comes to sipping sundowners, sampling tapas-style snacks and people watching all the action on the vibrant streets below. Side note for my vegetarian/vegan friends, everyone knows that Byron Bay has an excellent array of plant-based eateries. And, if I’m in the mood for vego food, a few Middle Eastern dishes from the Smoking Camel are my go to – this place just happens to morph into a late night bar hang out too – how utterly convienient.
Attractions & Activities in Byron Bay
There’s much to do and see when on holiday here, from exploring the region’s plentiful natural attractions (hello sunset Tallows Beach strolls, local waterfall dips and gentle morning hinterland hikes), to live music gigs.
Note: Byron Bay is world-famous for its epic annual Blues Festival, along with its avant-garde art galleries, artisanal creative hubs, high-fashion collectives armed with bespoke jewellery and statement outfits (a designer shopping sprees at Island Luxe and St. Agni immediately springs to mind. I’m also inclined (given it’s my wheelhouse) to attend the Byron Writers Festival whenever my travel dates align.
Feeling a bit more adventerous? There are several excellent certified Byron Bay diving and snorkelling tours available too. Fact: a guided underwater journey to the iconic Julian Rocks is a guaranteed bucket list worthy experience. The same goes for horseriding on the beach at Byron Bay with the expert team from Zephyr Horses – this crew even offer a personalised pub tour on horseback too!
So, go ahead and add any of these activites to your Byron Bay holiday itinerary or, simply stay put in your luxuriously appointed Villa and relish in a well-deserved retreat from the fray style escape instead.
For up-to-date rates and all booking enquiries please contact the property directly https://thevillasofbyron.com.au/
Luxe Surf Style 
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